Dear Family and Friends of Hermitage Church of the Nazarene,
Someone in the Hermitage congregation regularly deposited a request in the offering plates for almost one year requesting that a Christmas Eve service be scheduled for 2008. The notes were always kind. So we scheduled the service at 7:00 PM on Wednesday, December 24, 2008, in the Sanctuary and close to 400 people attended. Jerry Keener said the parking lot looked like a Titan's game with every car on the road pulling into the parking lot and groups of 20-30 people huddled and moving into the building. The service is a keeper. I hope your Christmas was good and that you were able to be with people who you love and who bring joy to your life.
The Genesis Sunday School Class hosted Room-in-the-Inn on the HCN campus on Saturday evening, December 27, 2008. Those who served included Becky Evans, Beth Seaman, Bill and Melva Stricklin, Beverly and Presley Stinson, Dan and Cathy Preston, Paul, Christy, and Katie Stonecipher, Kent and Kim Kile, Bobby, Rondy, and Sue Smith, David and Yori Taylor, Lisa Anderson, Carol Clem, Dianne McNeese, Jon Alderman, Marvin Heath, Bryce and Carter Poole, Webb Trojan, Beth and Gallic Rice, Kristi Mabry, Kathy Orrick, Rhonda Ward, Steve and Lisa Kelley, Tes Tigabu, Dan, Jody, Graham, and Chandler Scott, J.D. and Angela Hisey. The group provided Saturday evening's meal, Sunday's breakfast, and Sunday lunches to go. Thanks for showing the face of Jesus to the world. Thanks for doing to Jesus all that you have done.
Yesterday's one service met in The Center at 10:00 AM. The crowd was slow to gather but by the time preaching started, the place was full. Sam Green was out-of-town with his family and a wonderful praise team stepped up to lead worship and the choir. Thanks to Bryce and Beth Fox, Dorinda Biggs, and Paul Vann. The Center Band was missing Ricky Gore, Paul Boiling, Randy Layne, and Donny Jackson, so the remaining troops of Michael Waller, Graham Scott, Andy McCormick, and Dave Flint filled the gaps and added Ben Tyler on percussion. Because the service included all the nurseries and children's departments, I knew we needed lots of changing faces in the pulpit. I assigned pieces of the message to pastoral staff members who were in-town and I had the opportunity both to preach and to listen. Thanks to Carol Waller, Shane Tarter, Ronnie Thompson, and Rondy Smith for sharing the pulpit with me. I did not know that a university president and deans from two schools of religion were present in the service until after service. One of them talked to me for a long time in the lobby about the wonderful personality of this congregation.
If any of you are on trial in Wilson County in the next three months, tell me quickly so that I can get out of jury duty. Why do I get called so often?
Since September 14, 2008, people in our congregation have given money to support orphans in the Suvia Children's Home in Kali, Kenya. The Poverty Dinner at the close of September contributed the first major funds. To date, $16,246.50 was given to the church and $5,000 was given through the United Way by one of our members. At $840 per child for one year, HCN now sponsors 25 of the orphans in the home. That covers their food, housing, water, clothing, schooling, and protection. On Sunday, December 28, 2008, a family in the church gave $3,260 toward a well water project for the 2010 mission trip. Thanks for caring and giving. The Lord be praised.
The first meeting for the Mission Africa 2010 trip is scheduled for this Sunday, January 4, 2009, at 6:00 PM hi the Sanctuary. Basic cost information, dates, and projects will be shared. The meeting will also include the covering of a prayer time which was essential to the 2008 trip.
Congratulations to Megan Lavery, a senior at MJHS, who recently signed to play Softball for Cumberland University in the next academic year. Last Spring, Megan batted .302 with 18 stolen bases and 21 RBIs for MJHS. hi November, Palmer Maphet, a senior at MJHS, and Emily Wilson, a junior at MJHS, competed in the TSSAA State Cross Country Championships at the Percy Warner Park Steeplechase Course. Palmer qualified by finishing seventh in the Region 5AAA meet with a 17.42. Emily qualified by finishing fourth in the Region 5AAA meet with a 21..24. Find their photos on The Center glass-enclosed bulletin board.
Morning schedules return to normal this Sunday, January 4,2009, with Sunday School classes meeting at 8:00, 9:00, and 10:15 AM, and morning worship meeting at 9:00 AM in the Sanctuary and at 10:15 AM in The Center. The only evening meeting is the Africa Meeting in the Sanctuary at 6:00 PM. Wednesday schedules return to normal on January 7, 2009, at 6:30 PM. Sunday evening schedules return to normal on January 11, 2009, at 6:00 PM.
The Wesleyan Covenant Service will guide morning worship this week. Many, many people leave the service asking if we could administer it more frequently. The service gives us an opportunity to consider our great need for forgiveness and reconciliation in Christ with a challenge and commitment to live a holy life. I think the messages of the music may be the most powerful of any service in which I participate. It is a great new year service and welcome back to worship service.
Membership classes are scheduled for Tuesday, January 27, at 7:00 PM, and Saturday, January 31,2009, at 9:00 AM. Each class will meet for 1 hour and 15 minutes; led by Pastor Howard; in the Sanctuary. You only need one of the classes. If you are interested in church membership, get one of these dates on your new calendar. New members will be received on Sunday, February 1, 2009, in each morning worship service.
In Christ Jesus,
Pastor Howard
Monday, December 29, 2008
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
December 24, 2008
Dear Family and Friends of Hermitage Church of the Nazarene,
It is Christmas Eve and I am just now writing this letter. Life at the church has normally slowed down by now and I have left the office for several days of shopping. That has not happened this year. My schedule through today is busier than normal. So, I am hoping to get out this morning and finish up what is not yet but shall be or I am dead. I am looking forward to our first Christmas Eve service tonight.
I begin this letter by apologizing for leaving out the Crosstrainers Sunday School Class as the primary set-up crew for the Advent social on Sunday, December 14, 2008. The reason I did not know is the class actually stayed after morning worship and set up tables and chairs and then four members of the class returned at 5:00 PM to make sure all was well. I saw Kenny McNeese patrolling the halls and The Center assisting everyone who needed a hand. Thanks, Crosstrainers.
I also forgot to mention last week that while Pastor Ronnie Thompson and Jenni took an out-of-town trip on Sunday, December 14,2008, the Middle School pulpit was filled by two of our Trevecca preacher boys, Jake Resor and Daniel Smith. I have heard rave reviews of the morning and the ease with which the guys handled the morning.
The instrumentalists at Hermitage Church are talented and numerous and capable of changing seats in the mix. With Willard Brinkman hi Florida following the death of his brother, Michael Waller hi bed sick, Donny Jackson and Ricky Gore out-of-town, there was a wholesale shift hi first and second services. Richard Knox (welcome home, brother) moved to the organ and David Flint played the piano hi first service. Paul Boiling shifted to another percussion set and Andy McCormick played keyboards hi second service. Thanks for moving to the place that was needed, men, and for doing it with great grace.
Wikipedia defines a diva as a celebrated female singer. Hermitage Church had the privilege to listen to three divas share the stage last Sunday evening hi The Center. They were Dorinda Biggs, Suzanne Herring, and Catherine Segars. Each sang songs straight from their distinctive personalities and styles, each very different. I sat hi a chair against the back wall and drank in every note. Thanks to Center Band members Randy Layne, David Flint, Paul Boiling, Michael Waller for accompanying each lady. It was another one of my new favorites at HCN.
Pastor Nicholas from Kali, Kenya, has informed the World Servants organization that the drought in then- area has brought almost famine conditions to then- people. The lack of natural water supplies and therefore of fruitful crops is devastating. Because we are sponsoring twenty of the twenty-five orphans now in the Suvia Children's Home, these children have food to eat. Some members of HCN are giving money to purchase basic supplies for the community.
Please remember that on Sunday, December 28,2008, there is ONE morning service at Hermitage Church. The service meets at 10:00 AM in The Center and is an ALL FAMILY service with babies, children, middle schools students, senior high students, university students, young adults, middle adults, mature adults, senior adults. I think we are age one week to 92 years old. There are no Sunday School Classes with one exception: Early Christians meet at 9:00 AM. The service includes congregational music, choir, preaching, and communion. Bring your out-of-town family and friends with you to worship.
I want to challenge you to think of the year 2009 as the year you either turned or returned to the Word of God. Get out your Bible or go purchase a translation you would read and commit yourself to reading 4-5 days per week, every week. Commit yourself to participation in at least one serious Bible study per week. There are multiple opportunities at HCN in Sunday morning Sunday School, Wednesday night or Sunday night small groups. Reading the Word will make us pray and prayer changes everything.
Pay attention to end-of-the-year giving. The needs of the world are great. I love you deeply and hope your Christmas is filled with Jesus.
In Christ Jesus,
Pastor Howard
It is Christmas Eve and I am just now writing this letter. Life at the church has normally slowed down by now and I have left the office for several days of shopping. That has not happened this year. My schedule through today is busier than normal. So, I am hoping to get out this morning and finish up what is not yet but shall be or I am dead. I am looking forward to our first Christmas Eve service tonight.
I begin this letter by apologizing for leaving out the Crosstrainers Sunday School Class as the primary set-up crew for the Advent social on Sunday, December 14, 2008. The reason I did not know is the class actually stayed after morning worship and set up tables and chairs and then four members of the class returned at 5:00 PM to make sure all was well. I saw Kenny McNeese patrolling the halls and The Center assisting everyone who needed a hand. Thanks, Crosstrainers.
I also forgot to mention last week that while Pastor Ronnie Thompson and Jenni took an out-of-town trip on Sunday, December 14,2008, the Middle School pulpit was filled by two of our Trevecca preacher boys, Jake Resor and Daniel Smith. I have heard rave reviews of the morning and the ease with which the guys handled the morning.
The instrumentalists at Hermitage Church are talented and numerous and capable of changing seats in the mix. With Willard Brinkman hi Florida following the death of his brother, Michael Waller hi bed sick, Donny Jackson and Ricky Gore out-of-town, there was a wholesale shift hi first and second services. Richard Knox (welcome home, brother) moved to the organ and David Flint played the piano hi first service. Paul Boiling shifted to another percussion set and Andy McCormick played keyboards hi second service. Thanks for moving to the place that was needed, men, and for doing it with great grace.
Wikipedia defines a diva as a celebrated female singer. Hermitage Church had the privilege to listen to three divas share the stage last Sunday evening hi The Center. They were Dorinda Biggs, Suzanne Herring, and Catherine Segars. Each sang songs straight from their distinctive personalities and styles, each very different. I sat hi a chair against the back wall and drank in every note. Thanks to Center Band members Randy Layne, David Flint, Paul Boiling, Michael Waller for accompanying each lady. It was another one of my new favorites at HCN.
Pastor Nicholas from Kali, Kenya, has informed the World Servants organization that the drought in then- area has brought almost famine conditions to then- people. The lack of natural water supplies and therefore of fruitful crops is devastating. Because we are sponsoring twenty of the twenty-five orphans now in the Suvia Children's Home, these children have food to eat. Some members of HCN are giving money to purchase basic supplies for the community.
Please remember that on Sunday, December 28,2008, there is ONE morning service at Hermitage Church. The service meets at 10:00 AM in The Center and is an ALL FAMILY service with babies, children, middle schools students, senior high students, university students, young adults, middle adults, mature adults, senior adults. I think we are age one week to 92 years old. There are no Sunday School Classes with one exception: Early Christians meet at 9:00 AM. The service includes congregational music, choir, preaching, and communion. Bring your out-of-town family and friends with you to worship.
I want to challenge you to think of the year 2009 as the year you either turned or returned to the Word of God. Get out your Bible or go purchase a translation you would read and commit yourself to reading 4-5 days per week, every week. Commit yourself to participation in at least one serious Bible study per week. There are multiple opportunities at HCN in Sunday morning Sunday School, Wednesday night or Sunday night small groups. Reading the Word will make us pray and prayer changes everything.
Pay attention to end-of-the-year giving. The needs of the world are great. I love you deeply and hope your Christmas is filled with Jesus.
In Christ Jesus,
Pastor Howard
Monday, December 15, 2008
December 15, 2008
Dear Family and Friends of Hermitage Church of the Nazarene,
Congratulations to Wendell DeVries and Terri Sanders who were joined in marriage on Sunday, December 14, 2008, at 5:00 PM in the Hermitage Church sanctuary. I had the privilege to lead Wendell and Terri in premarital counseling and to preside at their ceremony. They not only attended second service yesterday but brought all of their out-of-town family from Iowa and prayed together as a couple during open altars. Good beginning. We pray for wonderful years to come.
Middle school, Senior high, and College/University Students provided a wonderful opportunity of worship and entertainment in The Center at 6:00 PM last evening. Preston Hunt coordinated and led the music provided by Preston himself, and instrumentalists Graham Scott, Andy McCormick, Jim Waters and vocalist, guitarist Chelsea Crawford.
Diane Cater wrote the script and then directed Middle School and Senior High students in dramatic action. Thanks to Diane and Building One students Daniel Jones, Anna-Laura Green, Will Miranne, Christi Fite, Ross Drummond, Lauren Lavery, Brandon Shepard, Hunter Steinmetz, Jonathan Tigabu and Livewire students Josh Cater, Hannah Garrett, Emily Mowry, Jonathan Mowry, Rachel Jones, Kelsey Kile, Avie Joyce, Jessi Joyce, Kevin Helm, Josh Elkins, Kellie Rose, Sara Drummond, Jessica Perkins, Bethany Ruff, Chandler Scott, Ryann Amity, Bryson Fox, Nathaniel Jackson, Hannah Jackson, Shelby Combs, Trevor Hunt, Anna Waller, Emily Paddon, Mikalia Duck, Sophia Green, and Isabella Green. Thanks to assistants: Hayley Hill, Jake Resor, Kathy Drummond, Jeff Cater, Charlotte Rose, Christine Helm.
The Pizza and Pasta Social which followed the evening was set-up, serviced, and cleaned up by the Young Professionals Sunday School Class and I was impressed with their attention to their responsibilities. The food was delicious and the fellowship that followed was slow and easy and wonderful. Thanks to all the people who week-after-week cooperate with providing food for themselves and others.
Teresa Vines coordinated and led the Service of Remembrance at HCN last Thursday evening. You will remember it was the night of the very quick snow and ice storm. Despite the weather, thirty plus people gathered in a service to remember the lives of those who have moved forward to be with the Lord. Glen Detwiler built a beautiful tiered candle box which allowed each person to light a candle in memory of their loved one. What a thoughtful opportunity to express sorrow and loss in our lives.
Let me account to you for the gift cards you have given through the offering plates, dropping them by the church office, or giving at the New Life Sunday School party. Gift cards to Kroger total $250. Gift cards to Walmart and Target total $1,041. Gifts in cash and checks total $2,895. Pastoral staff has distributed/is distributing the cards or money to families in need. All of the families have children. Three young girls came to my office this afternoon with a gift card for $31. They had combined their financial resources so that they could provide help for someone who needed it.
There are four significant services remaining for Hermitage Church in 2008.
The first includes morning worship services at 9:00 AM and 10:15 PM this Sunday, December 21, 2008. It is the fourth Sunday of Advent. Be ready for preaching, congregational singing, the choir, and the Spirit of the Lord speaking louder than them all.
The second includes the evening gathering at 6:00 PM this Sunday. We meet in The Center for a Christmas concert by three outstanding female vocalists who are a part of our church family: Dorinda Biggs, Suzanne Herring, and Catherine Segars. Each of the ladies sing their own distinct style of music and each belongs to the Lord. We repeat my favorite menu: soups and salads, desserts, and drinks. This is the last official social of the year. Bring a pot of soup OR a large salad, a dessert, and a large drink. We eat following the music.
The third includes the Christmas Eve Service on Wednesday, December 24, 2008, at 7:00 PM. It is a much requested service and one which has made many of you rejoice. This service meets in the Sanctuary. It will include scripture, carols, communion, and the lighting of candles from the Christ candle.
The fourth includes the last Sunday of the year, December 28, 2008. There is ONE morning worship service on this day at 10:00 AM in The Center. We will gather as multiple generations with babies, children, teenagers, young adults, mature adults, and senior adults. We will work hard to have the temperature right, the mix of music right, and a message with life and challenge. No Sunday School meets on this day nor will there be an evening service. Enjoy the Sabbath rest.
Kevin Downs is the son of a retired co-worker of Sandra Kurtz. Sandra watched Kevin grow up and join the military and ship off to Iraq. Three and one-half years ago, Kevin was the victim of a bomb explosion that took the lives of everyone else in Kevin’s tank except Kevin. It left him without legs, great damage to his arms, and massive burns to his face and chest. For a long time, Kevin has endured surgery followed by surgery followed by another surgery to reconstruct his arms and make them useful and to live through skin grafts to his face. His Middle Tennessee hometown community has built Kevin a house to meet all the special needs of his new disabilities. Last week, Kevin visited the plant where Sandra works and a picture was taken. She left it with me and I have posted it on The Center glass-enclosed board. Kevin is special for a lot of reasons but one of them is that his injuries began our praying for the safety of soldiers by name during worship. Out of Kevin’s sufferings, comes care for others. It is the redeeming way of God.
In Christ Jesus with open hands and life,
Pastor Howard
Congratulations to Wendell DeVries and Terri Sanders who were joined in marriage on Sunday, December 14, 2008, at 5:00 PM in the Hermitage Church sanctuary. I had the privilege to lead Wendell and Terri in premarital counseling and to preside at their ceremony. They not only attended second service yesterday but brought all of their out-of-town family from Iowa and prayed together as a couple during open altars. Good beginning. We pray for wonderful years to come.
Middle school, Senior high, and College/University Students provided a wonderful opportunity of worship and entertainment in The Center at 6:00 PM last evening. Preston Hunt coordinated and led the music provided by Preston himself, and instrumentalists Graham Scott, Andy McCormick, Jim Waters and vocalist, guitarist Chelsea Crawford.
Diane Cater wrote the script and then directed Middle School and Senior High students in dramatic action. Thanks to Diane and Building One students Daniel Jones, Anna-Laura Green, Will Miranne, Christi Fite, Ross Drummond, Lauren Lavery, Brandon Shepard, Hunter Steinmetz, Jonathan Tigabu and Livewire students Josh Cater, Hannah Garrett, Emily Mowry, Jonathan Mowry, Rachel Jones, Kelsey Kile, Avie Joyce, Jessi Joyce, Kevin Helm, Josh Elkins, Kellie Rose, Sara Drummond, Jessica Perkins, Bethany Ruff, Chandler Scott, Ryann Amity, Bryson Fox, Nathaniel Jackson, Hannah Jackson, Shelby Combs, Trevor Hunt, Anna Waller, Emily Paddon, Mikalia Duck, Sophia Green, and Isabella Green. Thanks to assistants: Hayley Hill, Jake Resor, Kathy Drummond, Jeff Cater, Charlotte Rose, Christine Helm.
The Pizza and Pasta Social which followed the evening was set-up, serviced, and cleaned up by the Young Professionals Sunday School Class and I was impressed with their attention to their responsibilities. The food was delicious and the fellowship that followed was slow and easy and wonderful. Thanks to all the people who week-after-week cooperate with providing food for themselves and others.
Teresa Vines coordinated and led the Service of Remembrance at HCN last Thursday evening. You will remember it was the night of the very quick snow and ice storm. Despite the weather, thirty plus people gathered in a service to remember the lives of those who have moved forward to be with the Lord. Glen Detwiler built a beautiful tiered candle box which allowed each person to light a candle in memory of their loved one. What a thoughtful opportunity to express sorrow and loss in our lives.
Let me account to you for the gift cards you have given through the offering plates, dropping them by the church office, or giving at the New Life Sunday School party. Gift cards to Kroger total $250. Gift cards to Walmart and Target total $1,041. Gifts in cash and checks total $2,895. Pastoral staff has distributed/is distributing the cards or money to families in need. All of the families have children. Three young girls came to my office this afternoon with a gift card for $31. They had combined their financial resources so that they could provide help for someone who needed it.
There are four significant services remaining for Hermitage Church in 2008.
The first includes morning worship services at 9:00 AM and 10:15 PM this Sunday, December 21, 2008. It is the fourth Sunday of Advent. Be ready for preaching, congregational singing, the choir, and the Spirit of the Lord speaking louder than them all.
The second includes the evening gathering at 6:00 PM this Sunday. We meet in The Center for a Christmas concert by three outstanding female vocalists who are a part of our church family: Dorinda Biggs, Suzanne Herring, and Catherine Segars. Each of the ladies sing their own distinct style of music and each belongs to the Lord. We repeat my favorite menu: soups and salads, desserts, and drinks. This is the last official social of the year. Bring a pot of soup OR a large salad, a dessert, and a large drink. We eat following the music.
The third includes the Christmas Eve Service on Wednesday, December 24, 2008, at 7:00 PM. It is a much requested service and one which has made many of you rejoice. This service meets in the Sanctuary. It will include scripture, carols, communion, and the lighting of candles from the Christ candle.
The fourth includes the last Sunday of the year, December 28, 2008. There is ONE morning worship service on this day at 10:00 AM in The Center. We will gather as multiple generations with babies, children, teenagers, young adults, mature adults, and senior adults. We will work hard to have the temperature right, the mix of music right, and a message with life and challenge. No Sunday School meets on this day nor will there be an evening service. Enjoy the Sabbath rest.
Kevin Downs is the son of a retired co-worker of Sandra Kurtz. Sandra watched Kevin grow up and join the military and ship off to Iraq. Three and one-half years ago, Kevin was the victim of a bomb explosion that took the lives of everyone else in Kevin’s tank except Kevin. It left him without legs, great damage to his arms, and massive burns to his face and chest. For a long time, Kevin has endured surgery followed by surgery followed by another surgery to reconstruct his arms and make them useful and to live through skin grafts to his face. His Middle Tennessee hometown community has built Kevin a house to meet all the special needs of his new disabilities. Last week, Kevin visited the plant where Sandra works and a picture was taken. She left it with me and I have posted it on The Center glass-enclosed board. Kevin is special for a lot of reasons but one of them is that his injuries began our praying for the safety of soldiers by name during worship. Out of Kevin’s sufferings, comes care for others. It is the redeeming way of God.
In Christ Jesus with open hands and life,
Pastor Howard
Monday, December 1, 2008
December 1, 2008
Thanksgiving 2008 offered changes to my life. I ate at Brady, Michelle, and Kennedy’s house for lunch. Michelle’s parents, Keith and Marlene Arend, came down from fifteen inches of snow in Michigan. Michelle and Marlene cooked dinner. My daughter, Kelly, and my mother-in-law, Sue Smith, joined us. It was Anna’s year to work on Thanksgiving at the hospital so Brady and I delivered a plate to her. I am glad when my daughter-in-law gets to be with her parents and when my granddaughter gets to be with her other set of grands. I feel less guilty for all the time I consume in their lives. I also enjoyed the change of pace that a holiday on Thursday allows. Friday and Saturday were less throttled. I hope your day was good. I am impressed with the reports of a family in the church who invited new church families and neighbors for Thanksgiving.
We transitioned from Thanksgiving to the first Sunday of Advent on Sunday and it seems to me that the Holy Spirit gave direction to the narrative and drama. Thanks to Shelby Thompson and Anthony Mannen for lighting the Advent candles in each service. Three members of the body shared their thanks for the presence and activity of God in their lives last year, each with pieces of suffering included. Thanks to Daniel Smith, Jason Vines, and Jill Satterlee for transparent stories and the courage you revealed in sharing them. Your words gave hope to others. “My Life is in Your Hands” was never more appropriate.
Thanks to every person who assisted with set-up, service, and clean-up for the preparation service last Sunday night. Lisa Anderson, who normally gives quiet direction to all the social events at HCN, was instead in the hospital awaiting surgery. Lisa’s family stepped up and filled the gaps. Thanks for the delicious soups, salads, and desserts. I forget how much I love homemade soup. Thanks to Betty Willis for coordinating decorating teams around the church. Betty may rearrange a few things before next Sunday but generally, wreaths are hung, trees are up, the nativity scene in the sanctuary is together. I loved the spirit, the company, the activity of the evening.
Sherman Nash came by the church last week and brought his and Virginia’s tithe check. He sat for a while and talked with me about life at 84 years of age. Sherman is one of the first people I met when I came to Hermitage Church. We have good history.
I need to add the names of two families who assisted with Room in the Inn activities on Saturday, November 22, 2008: the Kile family and the Alderman family. Thanks for preparing lunches to go and assisting with transportation.
The following facts come courtesy of staff writer Taylor Steinmetz: “Mt. Juliet High School held its first basketball games in the new school’s gym on November 20, 2008. Building One High School Students, Britt Bell and Katie Scott, got to make history by playing in the first ever girl’s game in the new gym and Brandon Shepard in the first ever guy’s game.” Congratulations to Britt, Katie, and Brandon, and thanks to Taylor.
Please notice schedule changes for this Sunday, December 7, 2008, in the morning. The Worship Choir and Band present a Christmas Musical Celebration at 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM (usually 10:15 AM), in The Center. Last fall, Dr. Sam Green asked the choir to select their ten favorite Christmas Choir selections and the result is a morning of powerful worship to honor the Lord Jesus. No Sunday School classes (except Early Christians at 8:00 AM), meet this Sunday due to choir member’s cross obligations with teaching and also with space and parking issues. HCN children present their Christmas programs on Sunday evening at 6:00 PM. Fellowship follows the program with finger foods provided by you and me. There are always lots of guests and sandwiches always seem to be in short supply. Would you help, please?
I need to tell you about the evening service for Sunday, December 21, 2008, at 6:00 PM. Sam has asked three talented vocalists in our congregation to each prepare three Christmas songs to share. They all agreed. Look forward to the musical gifts of Dorinda Biggs, Suzanne Herring, and Catherine Segars.
We received a phone call from a neighboring church this morning to alert us to thefts that have taken place over the last three weeks in three different churches. There is a team of one man and one woman who are doing the lifting. Ladies, please do not leave your purse unattended in any place over the next month. We will alert our designated security team to help. No panic, just caution.
If you would like to help a family in need during Christmas, I want to remind you that you can purchase a gift card and deposit it in offering plates on Sunday morning for the pastoral staff team to get to a family. I repeat that I am not in any way associated with Walmart, but Walmart cards allow the purchase of gas, food, clothing, toys. There are always serious needs with rent, utility bills, etc., with families in the church. If you want to help with those needs, make a check to the church and designate for families in need. The gifting is as immediate as possible, from your hands to our hands to hands in need.
I look forward to Sunday.
In Christ Jesus,
Pastor Howard
We transitioned from Thanksgiving to the first Sunday of Advent on Sunday and it seems to me that the Holy Spirit gave direction to the narrative and drama. Thanks to Shelby Thompson and Anthony Mannen for lighting the Advent candles in each service. Three members of the body shared their thanks for the presence and activity of God in their lives last year, each with pieces of suffering included. Thanks to Daniel Smith, Jason Vines, and Jill Satterlee for transparent stories and the courage you revealed in sharing them. Your words gave hope to others. “My Life is in Your Hands” was never more appropriate.
Thanks to every person who assisted with set-up, service, and clean-up for the preparation service last Sunday night. Lisa Anderson, who normally gives quiet direction to all the social events at HCN, was instead in the hospital awaiting surgery. Lisa’s family stepped up and filled the gaps. Thanks for the delicious soups, salads, and desserts. I forget how much I love homemade soup. Thanks to Betty Willis for coordinating decorating teams around the church. Betty may rearrange a few things before next Sunday but generally, wreaths are hung, trees are up, the nativity scene in the sanctuary is together. I loved the spirit, the company, the activity of the evening.
Sherman Nash came by the church last week and brought his and Virginia’s tithe check. He sat for a while and talked with me about life at 84 years of age. Sherman is one of the first people I met when I came to Hermitage Church. We have good history.
I need to add the names of two families who assisted with Room in the Inn activities on Saturday, November 22, 2008: the Kile family and the Alderman family. Thanks for preparing lunches to go and assisting with transportation.
The following facts come courtesy of staff writer Taylor Steinmetz: “Mt. Juliet High School held its first basketball games in the new school’s gym on November 20, 2008. Building One High School Students, Britt Bell and Katie Scott, got to make history by playing in the first ever girl’s game in the new gym and Brandon Shepard in the first ever guy’s game.” Congratulations to Britt, Katie, and Brandon, and thanks to Taylor.
Please notice schedule changes for this Sunday, December 7, 2008, in the morning. The Worship Choir and Band present a Christmas Musical Celebration at 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM (usually 10:15 AM), in The Center. Last fall, Dr. Sam Green asked the choir to select their ten favorite Christmas Choir selections and the result is a morning of powerful worship to honor the Lord Jesus. No Sunday School classes (except Early Christians at 8:00 AM), meet this Sunday due to choir member’s cross obligations with teaching and also with space and parking issues. HCN children present their Christmas programs on Sunday evening at 6:00 PM. Fellowship follows the program with finger foods provided by you and me. There are always lots of guests and sandwiches always seem to be in short supply. Would you help, please?
I need to tell you about the evening service for Sunday, December 21, 2008, at 6:00 PM. Sam has asked three talented vocalists in our congregation to each prepare three Christmas songs to share. They all agreed. Look forward to the musical gifts of Dorinda Biggs, Suzanne Herring, and Catherine Segars.
We received a phone call from a neighboring church this morning to alert us to thefts that have taken place over the last three weeks in three different churches. There is a team of one man and one woman who are doing the lifting. Ladies, please do not leave your purse unattended in any place over the next month. We will alert our designated security team to help. No panic, just caution.
If you would like to help a family in need during Christmas, I want to remind you that you can purchase a gift card and deposit it in offering plates on Sunday morning for the pastoral staff team to get to a family. I repeat that I am not in any way associated with Walmart, but Walmart cards allow the purchase of gas, food, clothing, toys. There are always serious needs with rent, utility bills, etc., with families in the church. If you want to help with those needs, make a check to the church and designate for families in need. The gifting is as immediate as possible, from your hands to our hands to hands in need.
I look forward to Sunday.
In Christ Jesus,
Pastor Howard
Monday, November 24, 2008
November 24, 2008
Room in the Inn returned to HCN on Saturday evening, hosted by the Bread Breakers Sunday School Class including the following families: Cutright, Vines (Jason), Groover, Helms, Morris (Steve), Barfield, Beach, Brown (Julie), Chaney, Davis (Carl), Garrett, Hollingsworth, Jones (Rodney), Stonecipher, Taylor (David), Whitehead. Jon Mowry drove the church van which transported the men needing shelter. I am thankful today for every person who prepared meals, chaperoned, and cared for people who live on the edge of survival. I am thankful for a church that built its facilities to make room for an inn.
Long Story Short returned to HCN on Sunday evening. Father/daughter Sam and Anna-Laura Green provided the opening rap music. Diane Cater narrated and directed and acted when needed. Shelley Flint, Jeff Cater, and Stephan Scappaticci provided central characters from Eve and Adam to the synopsis of Revelation. Rondy Smith put the puzzle together, assisted by Ashley Mize and Beth Seaman. Ted Brown, Jody Scott, and Betty Willis put the staging together. What a wonderful evening of redemptive entertainment. I remember the first year I saw Long Story Short and how hard I had to work to let my guard down and not be offended. Last night, I listened from a different place and enjoyed the stories and the hilarity. It was a marvelous telling and re-telling.
HCN has three female student athletes who play on their college basketball teams: Heather Miller, Becca Sharpe, and K.C. Van Atta. Heather plays for Vol State in Gallatin, TN. Becca plays for Bryan College in Dayton, TN. K.C. plays for Trevecca University in Nashville, TN. I have some press to share on all three.
Heather Miller’s Lady Pioneers have come back from a seven year slump to be ranked 18th in the nation in the NJCAA. They are also ranked 4th in team offense and 15th in team field goal percentage. The team is undefeated at 7-0.
Becca Sharpe leads the Lady Lions in assists, 3 pointers, and free throws. She is 70% for the season in 3 pointers. In the NAIA-II Top 20 Team Rankings, Becca is 3rd in assists and llth in 3 point percentage. She has reached double digits in assists in the last two games.
K.C. Van Atta was named the TranSouth Athletic Conference Player of the Week for the week ending Sunday, November 9, 2008. K.C. scored a career high 30 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, and hit a school single-game record 8 three pointers in a come from behind win. The Lady Trojans are ranked fourth in the nation in the NAIA-I and are currently 8-0.
Congratulations to Chris Taylor on his election to the Board of the Chamber of Commerce in Mount Juliet. Chris is the Fixed Operations Manager of the newly relocated Two Rivers Ford in Mt. Juliet. Chris is also a member of the HCN Church Board.
Allow me to talk to you about several “life of the church” issues. Let me begin by speaking to the provision of Christmas for others. For several years, the church has placed bins in The Center Lobby to collect goods for various agencies and needs. Needs are so great this year that several age groups and Sunday School Classes are already out-front collecting. So, you will not see the collection bins. However, families abound who have children who could use help for Christmas. Could I make a suggestion? If you would like to help, purchase a gift card from an area store and put it into the offering plates when they are passed on Sunday mornings. Counters will collect the cards and pass them to the pastoral staff who will pass them to families in need. Could I make another suggestion? A gift card to Walmart allows a family to purchase food, clothing, presents, or even gas for a vehicle ((I have no stock in or family who works for Walmart).
Second, I need to talk to you about Advent 2008. Advent is the season of anticipation. For four Sundays previous to Christmas Day, the church watches for the coming of the Christ child. There are Advent wreaths with candles lighted in each morning service, culminating in the lighting of the Christ candle in the Christmas Eve Service. There is Advent preaching and congregational singing. There are musicals and dramas and socials pointing us to December 25. I wanted to give you some of the details:
This Sunday, November 30, 2008, is the first of the four Advent Sundays. The morning is different but wonderful (you’ll see) and you will not want to miss it or you will have to be told about what happened. The evening begins at 6:00 PM and is a time of Preparing Ourselves and Our Spaces for Christmas. Families with last names beginning A-L should bring a pot of soup, dessert, and drink. Families with last names beginning M-Z should bring a large salad, dessert, and drink. Bring your food to The Center, share devotions, help dress the facilities for Christmas, and then we will eat.
The second Sunday of Advent is December 7, 2008. The Adult Christmas Musical is presented by the choir and band at 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM in The Center. There is no Sunday School this morning. The evening service begins at 6:00 PM with the Children’s Musical and followed by finger foods and drinks.
The third Sunday of Advent is December 14, 2008. The morning services feature Advent preaching and music. The evening service features a Teen Drama in The Center with pasta and pizza to follow.
The fourth Sunday of Advent is December 21, 2008. Again, the morning features Advent preaching and music. The evening service features three HCN vocalists in a concert of Christmas music. Soup and salads follow in The Center.
A Christmas Eve Service is new this year and comes by persistent and kind requests. The service begins at 7:00 PM in the Sanctuary and includes congregational singing, communion, and the lighting of candles.
Christmas Day is Thursday, December 25, 2008. It is the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus, our Lord and Savior and King.
I need to tell you I am thankful for you this Thanksgiving season. I consider many of you to be good and kind friends who I look forward to seeing and greeting and being with each Sunday. I am thankful for my faith and I hope my reputation is good with you. Your’s is good with me.
In Christ Jesus,
Pastor Howard
Long Story Short returned to HCN on Sunday evening. Father/daughter Sam and Anna-Laura Green provided the opening rap music. Diane Cater narrated and directed and acted when needed. Shelley Flint, Jeff Cater, and Stephan Scappaticci provided central characters from Eve and Adam to the synopsis of Revelation. Rondy Smith put the puzzle together, assisted by Ashley Mize and Beth Seaman. Ted Brown, Jody Scott, and Betty Willis put the staging together. What a wonderful evening of redemptive entertainment. I remember the first year I saw Long Story Short and how hard I had to work to let my guard down and not be offended. Last night, I listened from a different place and enjoyed the stories and the hilarity. It was a marvelous telling and re-telling.
HCN has three female student athletes who play on their college basketball teams: Heather Miller, Becca Sharpe, and K.C. Van Atta. Heather plays for Vol State in Gallatin, TN. Becca plays for Bryan College in Dayton, TN. K.C. plays for Trevecca University in Nashville, TN. I have some press to share on all three.
Heather Miller’s Lady Pioneers have come back from a seven year slump to be ranked 18th in the nation in the NJCAA. They are also ranked 4th in team offense and 15th in team field goal percentage. The team is undefeated at 7-0.
Becca Sharpe leads the Lady Lions in assists, 3 pointers, and free throws. She is 70% for the season in 3 pointers. In the NAIA-II Top 20 Team Rankings, Becca is 3rd in assists and llth in 3 point percentage. She has reached double digits in assists in the last two games.
K.C. Van Atta was named the TranSouth Athletic Conference Player of the Week for the week ending Sunday, November 9, 2008. K.C. scored a career high 30 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, and hit a school single-game record 8 three pointers in a come from behind win. The Lady Trojans are ranked fourth in the nation in the NAIA-I and are currently 8-0.
Congratulations to Chris Taylor on his election to the Board of the Chamber of Commerce in Mount Juliet. Chris is the Fixed Operations Manager of the newly relocated Two Rivers Ford in Mt. Juliet. Chris is also a member of the HCN Church Board.
Allow me to talk to you about several “life of the church” issues. Let me begin by speaking to the provision of Christmas for others. For several years, the church has placed bins in The Center Lobby to collect goods for various agencies and needs. Needs are so great this year that several age groups and Sunday School Classes are already out-front collecting. So, you will not see the collection bins. However, families abound who have children who could use help for Christmas. Could I make a suggestion? If you would like to help, purchase a gift card from an area store and put it into the offering plates when they are passed on Sunday mornings. Counters will collect the cards and pass them to the pastoral staff who will pass them to families in need. Could I make another suggestion? A gift card to Walmart allows a family to purchase food, clothing, presents, or even gas for a vehicle ((I have no stock in or family who works for Walmart).
Second, I need to talk to you about Advent 2008. Advent is the season of anticipation. For four Sundays previous to Christmas Day, the church watches for the coming of the Christ child. There are Advent wreaths with candles lighted in each morning service, culminating in the lighting of the Christ candle in the Christmas Eve Service. There is Advent preaching and congregational singing. There are musicals and dramas and socials pointing us to December 25. I wanted to give you some of the details:
This Sunday, November 30, 2008, is the first of the four Advent Sundays. The morning is different but wonderful (you’ll see) and you will not want to miss it or you will have to be told about what happened. The evening begins at 6:00 PM and is a time of Preparing Ourselves and Our Spaces for Christmas. Families with last names beginning A-L should bring a pot of soup, dessert, and drink. Families with last names beginning M-Z should bring a large salad, dessert, and drink. Bring your food to The Center, share devotions, help dress the facilities for Christmas, and then we will eat.
The second Sunday of Advent is December 7, 2008. The Adult Christmas Musical is presented by the choir and band at 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM in The Center. There is no Sunday School this morning. The evening service begins at 6:00 PM with the Children’s Musical and followed by finger foods and drinks.
The third Sunday of Advent is December 14, 2008. The morning services feature Advent preaching and music. The evening service features a Teen Drama in The Center with pasta and pizza to follow.
The fourth Sunday of Advent is December 21, 2008. Again, the morning features Advent preaching and music. The evening service features three HCN vocalists in a concert of Christmas music. Soup and salads follow in The Center.
A Christmas Eve Service is new this year and comes by persistent and kind requests. The service begins at 7:00 PM in the Sanctuary and includes congregational singing, communion, and the lighting of candles.
Christmas Day is Thursday, December 25, 2008. It is the day we celebrate the birth of Jesus, our Lord and Savior and King.
I need to tell you I am thankful for you this Thanksgiving season. I consider many of you to be good and kind friends who I look forward to seeing and greeting and being with each Sunday. I am thankful for my faith and I hope my reputation is good with you. Your’s is good with me.
In Christ Jesus,
Pastor Howard
Monday, November 17, 2008
November 17, 2008
Congratulations to the Hermitage Children Quizzers who participated in the multi- zone quiz hosted by our church on Saturday: Briley Ruff, Brielle Fox, Daniel Silvernail, Bryson Fox, Bethany Ruff, Jonathan Silvernail, Drew Silvernail, and Sara Waller. Briley, Brielle, and Daniel quizzed at the red level. Briley earned a gold star ribbon. Brielle and Daniel earned gold all-star ribbons. Bryson, Bethany, Jonathan, Drew, and Sara quizzed at the blue level. Drew and Sara earned gold star ribbons. Bryson, Bethany, and Jonathan earned gold all star ribbons.
Hermitage Church participated in a Mission Day on Sunday that is still buzzing in my head. Jon and Kathy Mowry, missionaries of eleven years to Soviet bloc countries and now at home in Tennessee and Hermitage Church, shared twelve stories to illustrate the mighty works of God in an atheistic culture. Their narratives captured our attention and made us want to participate in the continuation of the story. Phil Jordan, chairperson of the Finance Council, informed me this morning that to date, 97 families have pledged to give $76,832 over the next twelve months to World Missions. While I am excited about the totals, I believe there will be many more families who will join in the pledging over the next two weeks in November. Find pledge cards available at Welcome Centers.
Spencer Baggott addressed second service via Skype from the nation of Senegal in Africa. Spencer and April move from a year of language school to their assignment in Rwanda in several months. They are members of our church. Every month, their tithe check is mailed to HCN and deposited in the offering plates with our giving.
Congregational music was exceptionally moving in message yesterday. In first service, we sang “Jesus Saves” and “I Love to Tell the Story.” In second service, we sang “All Over the World,” “I Will Go,” and “Mighty to Save.” Kathy Mowry said if she had sung one more verse, she might have left her teaching assignment at Trevecca and returned to the field. That is the kind of person I want talking to me about missions. I want to recognize the behind the scenes people who made the difference yesterday. Donna Shankle leads the Mission Council at HCN and their planning for the morning produced the goods. Miriam McMillan pulled the stats together for the bulletin insert and Patrick McMillan designed it. Ken Jewett communicated with Spencer regarding avail-ability and timing and then prepared the systems. Robert Sullivan received the requests for help with power point from the Mowrys and made it happen. Jody Scott prepared the card stock pledge cards and printed them. Phil Jordan collected the cards and totaled them and recorded our pledges. Thanks, team.
Our Thanksgiving Dinner was a week earlier than usual. Thanks to the turkey and ham cookers who provided the meat: Carol Waller, Lisa Anderson, Brenda Agee, Bill Lowe, Janis Barrett, Barbara Parrish, Donna Wood, Miriam McMillan, Kristi Mabry, Marilyn Keener, Joy Bradley, Kim Kile, Bobby Meadows, Alex Whitehead, Ruth Pilkinton, Julie Foster, and Pam McNeese. We ran out of turkey and ham last year and the seventeen of you made sure it did not happen again. Thanks to everyone else for providing the salads, vegetables, desserts and drinks. The food was sensational and plenteous. My wife bragged all the way home about how tasty everything was. There were raves this morning in staff meeting for the sweet potatoes cut into slender slices. Thanks to the Genesis Sunday School Class for set-up, service, and clean-up, and to Lisa Anderson who is always watching over our social events.
Long Story Short returns to The Center this Sunday, November 23, 2008, at 6:00 PM. It is an hour long drama encapsulating the sixty-six books of the Bible presented by four characters: Diane Cater, Jeff Cater, Shelley Flint, and Stephan Scappaticci. I cannot over emphasize how very appealing it is. It is so funny and fast-paced and inspirational. It is a perfect opportunity to invite someone to attend church with you who thinks church is tired and boring. It is a hook with which the Holy Spirit may grab someone and turn around their life. The place should be packed.
If you are considering participating in the 2010 Mission Africa Trip, the first informa-tional gathering is scheduled for Sunday, January 4, 2009, at 6:00 PM in the Sanctuary. Put this date on your calendar. That meeting will be less than eighteen months from the beginning of a journey across the world.
I moved a chair off my back deck to an observation point for my back yard burn pile. I have torched all of the tree limbs I had collected for a year and I am waiting for a first burning of leaves on Thursday. The smell of yard fires transports me decades back into my childhood to the yard of a four room house in the Long Creek community of Meck-lenburg County, NC. When I look through the glass panes in my back door, the chair in the yard invites me, draws me to a place of remember. I hope there is something good stored somewhere in your memory that makes your life richer just in the recall. I hope that blessing for you.
In Christ Jesus,
Pastor Howard
Hermitage Church participated in a Mission Day on Sunday that is still buzzing in my head. Jon and Kathy Mowry, missionaries of eleven years to Soviet bloc countries and now at home in Tennessee and Hermitage Church, shared twelve stories to illustrate the mighty works of God in an atheistic culture. Their narratives captured our attention and made us want to participate in the continuation of the story. Phil Jordan, chairperson of the Finance Council, informed me this morning that to date, 97 families have pledged to give $76,832 over the next twelve months to World Missions. While I am excited about the totals, I believe there will be many more families who will join in the pledging over the next two weeks in November. Find pledge cards available at Welcome Centers.
Spencer Baggott addressed second service via Skype from the nation of Senegal in Africa. Spencer and April move from a year of language school to their assignment in Rwanda in several months. They are members of our church. Every month, their tithe check is mailed to HCN and deposited in the offering plates with our giving.
Congregational music was exceptionally moving in message yesterday. In first service, we sang “Jesus Saves” and “I Love to Tell the Story.” In second service, we sang “All Over the World,” “I Will Go,” and “Mighty to Save.” Kathy Mowry said if she had sung one more verse, she might have left her teaching assignment at Trevecca and returned to the field. That is the kind of person I want talking to me about missions. I want to recognize the behind the scenes people who made the difference yesterday. Donna Shankle leads the Mission Council at HCN and their planning for the morning produced the goods. Miriam McMillan pulled the stats together for the bulletin insert and Patrick McMillan designed it. Ken Jewett communicated with Spencer regarding avail-ability and timing and then prepared the systems. Robert Sullivan received the requests for help with power point from the Mowrys and made it happen. Jody Scott prepared the card stock pledge cards and printed them. Phil Jordan collected the cards and totaled them and recorded our pledges. Thanks, team.
Our Thanksgiving Dinner was a week earlier than usual. Thanks to the turkey and ham cookers who provided the meat: Carol Waller, Lisa Anderson, Brenda Agee, Bill Lowe, Janis Barrett, Barbara Parrish, Donna Wood, Miriam McMillan, Kristi Mabry, Marilyn Keener, Joy Bradley, Kim Kile, Bobby Meadows, Alex Whitehead, Ruth Pilkinton, Julie Foster, and Pam McNeese. We ran out of turkey and ham last year and the seventeen of you made sure it did not happen again. Thanks to everyone else for providing the salads, vegetables, desserts and drinks. The food was sensational and plenteous. My wife bragged all the way home about how tasty everything was. There were raves this morning in staff meeting for the sweet potatoes cut into slender slices. Thanks to the Genesis Sunday School Class for set-up, service, and clean-up, and to Lisa Anderson who is always watching over our social events.
Long Story Short returns to The Center this Sunday, November 23, 2008, at 6:00 PM. It is an hour long drama encapsulating the sixty-six books of the Bible presented by four characters: Diane Cater, Jeff Cater, Shelley Flint, and Stephan Scappaticci. I cannot over emphasize how very appealing it is. It is so funny and fast-paced and inspirational. It is a perfect opportunity to invite someone to attend church with you who thinks church is tired and boring. It is a hook with which the Holy Spirit may grab someone and turn around their life. The place should be packed.
If you are considering participating in the 2010 Mission Africa Trip, the first informa-tional gathering is scheduled for Sunday, January 4, 2009, at 6:00 PM in the Sanctuary. Put this date on your calendar. That meeting will be less than eighteen months from the beginning of a journey across the world.
I moved a chair off my back deck to an observation point for my back yard burn pile. I have torched all of the tree limbs I had collected for a year and I am waiting for a first burning of leaves on Thursday. The smell of yard fires transports me decades back into my childhood to the yard of a four room house in the Long Creek community of Meck-lenburg County, NC. When I look through the glass panes in my back door, the chair in the yard invites me, draws me to a place of remember. I hope there is something good stored somewhere in your memory that makes your life richer just in the recall. I hope that blessing for you.
In Christ Jesus,
Pastor Howard
Monday, November 10, 2008
November 10, 2008
Ray and Heather Anderson presented their daughters, Sarah and Becca, in dedication to the Lord Jesus on Sunday, November 9, 2008, in the 10:15 AM service in The Center. Sarah and Becca were joined at the altar by their maternal and paternal grandparents. Children’s Pastor Carol Waller carried Sarah and I carried Becca on their blessing journey. The girls were not only calm but friendly. Sarah waved at people. We thank the Lord for the blessing he has given to the Andersons in Sarah and Becca and pray that their lives will be lived as blessings in return.
Pastor Ronnie Thompson concluded the second season of Flag Football at HCN with a Thursday night, under-the-lights game. There were 82 participants this season with 18 of the players coming from HCN. HCN team members were Jacob Brown, Joel Daugherty, Preston Davis, Matthew Helm, TJ Hysell, Luke Joselyn, Maxwell Mullins, Bryce Poole, Carter Poole, Grant Render, Madeleine Rouse, Bethany Ruff, and Jordan Sweeten. Cheerleaders were Sarah Helm, Erica Render, Maggie Stroupe, Sadie Stroupe, and Elizabeth Sweeten. Coaches included Ray Render, Jody Sweeten, Doug Praskatch, Greg Ruff, Richard Hysell, Sherri Render, Stacey Sweeten, and Bonnie Stroupe. Steve Kelley and Rob Mathias served as referees. Robert Sullivan provided, set-up, and picked up the lights for the Awards Night. We congratulate every player, coach, referee, and volunteer for a successful season, for skills learned, for friendships formed.
Five HCN students are members of the Mt. Juliet Men and Women’s Swim Team: Lauren Lavery, Anna-Laura Green, Cassie Hunt, Alexandra Odom, and Taylor Wallace. Based on their meets throughout the year, Lauren has qualified for regionals and Taylor has qualified for state finals. Congratulations to these athletes.
In the last two years, the Church of the Nazarene has adopted the following mission statement: “to make Christlike disciples of the nations;” and defined the following core values: Christian, Holy, and Missional. Not that it matters, but I approve and applaud both. Missional is a twenty-first century word not yet included in most dictionaries. It speaks to attitude and lifestyle. It is so much more than dropping money into a plate. I think it means seeing the world with the eyes and heart of Jesus. This Sunday, November 16, 2008, you will have the opportunity to consider what it means for you to live missional. Jon and Kathy Mowry, veteran missionaries to Russia and members of our congregation, will help us. They have stories to tell from life experience. We need to listen and ask God how we can respond. Spencer and April Baggott are members of HCN and missionaries on a fresh assignment to Rwanda. We hope to speak to them by Skype. Pray that God’s will be done in both worship services and that at the end, our sight and heart condition will be more like Jesus.
Our Annual Thanksgiving Dinner arrives one week early this year. We eat together this Sunday, November 16, 2008, at 5:00 PM in The Center. At this writing, we still need cooks to purchase and prepare two more hams and two more turkeys. Call the church office at 847-3335 to volunteer. The rest of us need to bring dishes of one vegetable, one salad, one dessert, and one large drink. Appetites are big for Thanksgiving so bring plenty. The evening includes no entertainment, just great food and fellowship. We like to eat and we like to be together.
The Church Board appointed a Task Force in October to meet and propose an operating budget for the church for the 2009 calendar year. That Task Force met on Monday, November 3, 2008, at 7:00 PM and was composed of Phil Jordan, Brad Houser, David Hunt, Jerry Keener, Scott Steinmetz, and me. Copies of the proposal were mailed to every board member on Tuesday morning. The whole board met yesterday afternoon in the regular monthly board meeting and unanimously approved the budget. I wanted you to know that the budget includes a freeze on all salaries of pastoral staff and support staff and a continued freeze on any spending beyond salaries, mortgages, utilities, and missions. I personally recommended the freeze on salaries. It in no way reflects appreciation for the service given by staff. It represents an almost 4% reduction in total spending and the financial realities of our nation and our world. Please know as you continue to responsibly give to the church, that those who make decisions about finances will responsibly control how the monies are spent. Kendell Poole expressed his appreciation at the end of the board meeting for the excellence of the Finance Council and the confidence he has in each person for this serious time. I agree.
Congratulations to Dr. Larry Leonard, currently pastor of Highland Park Church of the Nazarene in Lakeland, Florida, on his appointment by General Superintendent Nina Gunter to serve as the Superintendent of the Tennessee District effective January 1, 2009. Dr. Leonard replaces Dr. Bob Broadbooks, recently elected by the General Board to serve as the USA/Canada Mission Director.
I am thankful to God for His presence and guidance in our worship services on Sunday. A young mother who regularly attends second service woke up on Sunday morning realizing she had volunteer responsibilities during that service. She knew she really needed to be a part of worship. So, reluctantly, she decided to come to first service. By the end of the service, she wound up standing in the front center row for communion filled with the knowledge that she was exactly where she was supposed to be. She told me that story today and I thought you would want to know.
I look forward to Sunday.
In Christ Jesus,
Pastor Howard
Pastor Ronnie Thompson concluded the second season of Flag Football at HCN with a Thursday night, under-the-lights game. There were 82 participants this season with 18 of the players coming from HCN. HCN team members were Jacob Brown, Joel Daugherty, Preston Davis, Matthew Helm, TJ Hysell, Luke Joselyn, Maxwell Mullins, Bryce Poole, Carter Poole, Grant Render, Madeleine Rouse, Bethany Ruff, and Jordan Sweeten. Cheerleaders were Sarah Helm, Erica Render, Maggie Stroupe, Sadie Stroupe, and Elizabeth Sweeten. Coaches included Ray Render, Jody Sweeten, Doug Praskatch, Greg Ruff, Richard Hysell, Sherri Render, Stacey Sweeten, and Bonnie Stroupe. Steve Kelley and Rob Mathias served as referees. Robert Sullivan provided, set-up, and picked up the lights for the Awards Night. We congratulate every player, coach, referee, and volunteer for a successful season, for skills learned, for friendships formed.
Five HCN students are members of the Mt. Juliet Men and Women’s Swim Team: Lauren Lavery, Anna-Laura Green, Cassie Hunt, Alexandra Odom, and Taylor Wallace. Based on their meets throughout the year, Lauren has qualified for regionals and Taylor has qualified for state finals. Congratulations to these athletes.
In the last two years, the Church of the Nazarene has adopted the following mission statement: “to make Christlike disciples of the nations;” and defined the following core values: Christian, Holy, and Missional. Not that it matters, but I approve and applaud both. Missional is a twenty-first century word not yet included in most dictionaries. It speaks to attitude and lifestyle. It is so much more than dropping money into a plate. I think it means seeing the world with the eyes and heart of Jesus. This Sunday, November 16, 2008, you will have the opportunity to consider what it means for you to live missional. Jon and Kathy Mowry, veteran missionaries to Russia and members of our congregation, will help us. They have stories to tell from life experience. We need to listen and ask God how we can respond. Spencer and April Baggott are members of HCN and missionaries on a fresh assignment to Rwanda. We hope to speak to them by Skype. Pray that God’s will be done in both worship services and that at the end, our sight and heart condition will be more like Jesus.
Our Annual Thanksgiving Dinner arrives one week early this year. We eat together this Sunday, November 16, 2008, at 5:00 PM in The Center. At this writing, we still need cooks to purchase and prepare two more hams and two more turkeys. Call the church office at 847-3335 to volunteer. The rest of us need to bring dishes of one vegetable, one salad, one dessert, and one large drink. Appetites are big for Thanksgiving so bring plenty. The evening includes no entertainment, just great food and fellowship. We like to eat and we like to be together.
The Church Board appointed a Task Force in October to meet and propose an operating budget for the church for the 2009 calendar year. That Task Force met on Monday, November 3, 2008, at 7:00 PM and was composed of Phil Jordan, Brad Houser, David Hunt, Jerry Keener, Scott Steinmetz, and me. Copies of the proposal were mailed to every board member on Tuesday morning. The whole board met yesterday afternoon in the regular monthly board meeting and unanimously approved the budget. I wanted you to know that the budget includes a freeze on all salaries of pastoral staff and support staff and a continued freeze on any spending beyond salaries, mortgages, utilities, and missions. I personally recommended the freeze on salaries. It in no way reflects appreciation for the service given by staff. It represents an almost 4% reduction in total spending and the financial realities of our nation and our world. Please know as you continue to responsibly give to the church, that those who make decisions about finances will responsibly control how the monies are spent. Kendell Poole expressed his appreciation at the end of the board meeting for the excellence of the Finance Council and the confidence he has in each person for this serious time. I agree.
Congratulations to Dr. Larry Leonard, currently pastor of Highland Park Church of the Nazarene in Lakeland, Florida, on his appointment by General Superintendent Nina Gunter to serve as the Superintendent of the Tennessee District effective January 1, 2009. Dr. Leonard replaces Dr. Bob Broadbooks, recently elected by the General Board to serve as the USA/Canada Mission Director.
I am thankful to God for His presence and guidance in our worship services on Sunday. A young mother who regularly attends second service woke up on Sunday morning realizing she had volunteer responsibilities during that service. She knew she really needed to be a part of worship. So, reluctantly, she decided to come to first service. By the end of the service, she wound up standing in the front center row for communion filled with the knowledge that she was exactly where she was supposed to be. She told me that story today and I thought you would want to know.
I look forward to Sunday.
In Christ Jesus,
Pastor Howard
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